This article explains the causes, symptoms, and effective treatments for red eyes. It highlights common triggers like allergens, infections, and environmental factors, and offers practical remedies such as cold compresses, proper hygiene, and medical advice. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking prompt care can prevent complications and ensure healthy eyesight.
The white part of the eye turning red, known as bloodshot or red eye, occurs when eye blood vessels become inflamed or irritated. This results in redness ranging from small pink spots to widespread streaks across the sclera.
This condition can affect one or both eyes and may present with symptoms such as:
Irritation
Dryness
Itching
Pain
Excessive tearing
Blurred vision
Burning sensation
Light sensitivity
Common causes include environmental allergies, airborne irritants, infections, injuries, or lifestyle factors.
Environmental triggers like pollen, pollution, dry air, dust, chemical fumes, chlorine from pools, or sunlight exposure without UV protection can cause eye redness. Serious conditions such as trauma, bacterial or viral infections, conjunctivitis, recent surgeries, or inflammatory eye diseases like scleritis and uveitis may also lead to bloodshot eyes.
Behaviors such as smoking, alcohol intake, prolonged screen usage, and inadequate sleep can worsen redness.
To alleviate symptoms, avoid rubbing the eyes, use cold compresses, and maintain eye cleanliness. Applying cool cloths with milk, warm compresses, and practicing good eye hygiene can reduce redness. Adequate rest, steering clear of irritants, eating nutritious foods rich in vitamins, and using artificial tears help support eye health. Over-the-counter eye drops might offer temporary relief but should be used with caution. If redness persists beyond three days, seek prompt medical care from an eye specialist.
Until professional help is available, wear glasses to limit irritation and prevent infection spread, and keep eyes moist with preservative-free drops. Consistent eye hygiene and timely consultation are essential for effective management of red eyes.
